CARPology Reviews 03-07-2015 00:00:00

Tel's new rods

The most exciting collaboration to happen since 2001: Terry Hearn and ESP have come together again to produce a MK3 Terry Hearn Carp Rod – and the result is nothing short of spectacular

When ESP launched the original MK1 Terry Hearn Carp Rod way back in 2001, the carp world was sent into a frenzy. A rod, designed to Tel’s spec, with a full duplon handle – it had ‘record sales’ written all over them – and they did. 14 years on, tastes have changed, materials improved, tech bettered, and now, for 2015, the ESP/Hearn duo are pleased to announce the arrival of the MK3 version, but this time there’s two: the ‘Classic’ and the ‘Distance’.

So why are there two models this time?
Whilst some will prefer the slightly softer playing and casting action of the 3.25lb TC ‘Classic’ – a rod very much based on the original and MK2 models, others will require a stepped-up, beefier version, and the ‘Distance’ encompasses the iconic 12ft 9” length and action of the benchmark ‘Classic’ but with extra reserves of power thanks to its 3.5lb TC rating.

Err, that’s a weird length…
It sure is, but all three generations have been made to this length, with the reason being Terry finds he not only gains extra distance and accuracy, but the fish playing experience is also improved.

A line-friendly line clip

A flared collar

How do they feel?
Bloody lovely. The ‘Classic’ has a perfect forward action and superb fish playing response, providing tactile feedback into the hand and arm, whilst the ‘Distance’, which of course comes with the boosted power and 50mm butt ring, means it will handle a wide range of leads and PVA bags but still retain excellent fish playing properties and enough shock absorption in the tip to prevent hook pulls.

Which is Tel’s preferred choice?
The Classic, and although this model is available with either a 40 or 50mm butt ring, Tel opts for the 40. Combine this with the single leg SiC guides which run along its length to reduce weight, improve action and balance, and you can see why Tel loves this model.

Stainless butt cap

Classic ‘Terry Hearn/ESP’ cosmetics

Give me the lux/tech verdict.
It’s good. The look of the Terry Hearn Carp Rods has always been strong, but the MK3 models really are premium affairs. The blanks use the latest high modulus carbon cloths, reinforced with a tough, chunky durable woven overwrap. They feature the signature slim, full-length EVA handle which now has a flared collar above the Fuji DPS reel seat. There’s also a machined stainless butt cap and moulded ESP (it’s proper line-friendly, too) line clip.

How badly do I want these?
Badly. Both the MK1 and MK2 Terry Hearn Carp Rods have been some of the biggest-selling rods in the UK for over a decade. These new models have yet again raised the bar in all areas, which has just put them on to another level.

“GIMME”: £249.00 and £259.00; esp-carpgear.com

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